How Often Should You Moisturize Your Face (And Can You Overdo It?)

If your skin feels tight, flaky, or uncomfortable, you’re likely dealing with dryness, and the proper skin care routine for dry skin can make all the difference. Dry skin needs more than a heavy moisturizer. It requires hydration, barrier support, and gentle care from start to finish. This guide walks through the best skin care routine for dry skin, using clean, farm-sourced ingredients from Farmacy Beauty. You’ll learn how to layer products, what to avoid, and which formulas can help your skin feel hydrated, soft, and healthy again. What Causes Dry Skin and Why a Routine Helps Your skin has a built-in defense system called the skin barrier, a thin layer made up of lipids, ceramides, and skin cells that work together to keep moisture in and irritants out. When the skin barrier is healthy, your skin feels hydrated, resilient, and radiant. Dry skin occurs when this barrier loses too much water and oil. Common causes include cold weather, low humidity, harsh cleansers, aging, and genetics. When the skin barrier becomes compromised, it can’t lock in moisture as effectively, leading to flakiness, tightness, and irritation. A consistent dry skin care routine helps repair that skin barrier. Every step, from gentle cleansing to moisturizing, plays a role in restoring hydration and keeping your skin comfortable. When your skin barrier is supported daily, dryness becomes easier to manage and your skin looks visibly healthier. Step-by-Step: The Best Skin Care Routine for Dry Skin Each step below builds on the previous one to ensure lasting hydration and comfort. Step 1: Cleanse Gently Without Stripping Every great dry skin care routine starts with a gentle cleanse. Cleansing removes impurities and makeup while prepping your skin to absorb hydration. The goal is to clean without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture barrier. It’s time to ditch the wipes. A cleansing balm followed by a gentle wash gives you that same clean feeling without the tugging or dryness, and your skin barrier will thank you. If you’re wearing makeup, start with  Green Clean Fragrance-Free Cleansing Balm. This new and improved version of our award-winning fragrance-free cleansing balm is clinically proven to remove over 99% of long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara, and SPF. Sunflower oil helps dissolve buildup without scrubbing, while papaya extract lifts away impurities for a fresh, nourished feel. A farm-grown blend of moringa, holy basil, and arugula provides natural antioxidants that promote healthy, balanced skin. Follow with  Green Clean Gentle Creamy Cleanser to complete your double cleanse. This ultra-hydrating cream cleanser is packed with omega-rich vitamin F, upcycled moringa oil, and soothing aloe to support your skin barrier and calm dryness. A blend of oats and apples helps nourish, soften, and prep the skin for the next steps in your routine. The fragrance-free formula makes it ideal for dry, sensitive, or combination skin. Quick Recap:  The best cleansers for dry skin remove impurities while keeping your skin barrier healthy and hydrated. Hydrating ingredients like moringa oil, oats, and aloe help keep skin soft, smooth, and comfortable. Step 2: Replenish Hydration with a Toner or Essence After cleansing, your skin may feel clean but slightly dehydrated. This is where a hydrating toner or essence makes a difference. Look for formulas with humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that draw water into the skin, and barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides to help lock it in. Farmacy’s Honey Milk Hydrating Essence does both. It blends ceramides and honey to attract and seal in hydration while supporting your skin barrier. The result is skin that feels calm, comfortable, and balanced. Apply the essence with your hands instead of cotton pads to minimize friction and help the product absorb evenly. Quick Recap:  A toner or essence rich in humectants and ceramides helps replenish hydration after cleansing and helps you maintain a balanced skin barrier. Step 3: Treat and Support with a Serum After cleansing and hydrating, your skin is ready to receive concentrated care, and that’s where serums come in. Serums deliver active ingredients deep into the skin, targeting dryness, texture, and overall tone. This step follows toner or essence because hydrated skin absorbs treatment ingredients more effectively, allowing you to get the most out of your routine. When caring for dry skin, choose serums that both treat and hydrate. Look for formulas with barrier-supporting ingredients, antioxidants, and replenishing oils to lock in comfort while addressing other skin concerns. In the morning, try Farmacy’s 10% Waterless Vitamin C Serum. This oil-free concentrate features 10% L-ascorbic acid, the purest form of vitamin C, to brighten and smooth, while 1% alpha-arbutin helps reduce the appearance of dark spots. Its innovative waterless formula keeps vitamin C stable and potent, while upcycled tangerine peel and sugar beet add moisture for a radiant, refreshed look. At night, reach for 1% Vitamin A Retinol Serum to firm and replenish dry skin as you rest. This advanced serum uses two potent retinoids, encapsulated retinol for gradual, gentle delivery and retinal for faster results. It’s enriched with ceramide NP and antioxidant-rich upcycled oils to restore hydration and strengthen your skin barrier while you sleep. For best results, apply one to two pumps of serum after your toner or essence, gently pressing it into your skin before applying your moisturizer. Quick Recap: Serums help deliver concentrated ingredients that target dryness while supporting a healthy, hydrated barrier, making them an essential step in your routine. Step 4: Lock In Moisture with a Rich Moisturizer After applying your serum, the next step is to lock in all that hydration. Moisturizers help seal in moisture, support your skin barrier, and prevent water loss throughout the day. For dry skin, a richer texture is essential to restore softness and comfort while reinforcing your barrier over time. Farmacy’s Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer is a favorite for deeply nourishing dry, distressed skin. This ultra-hydrating formula blends antioxidant-rich buckwheat honey with plant-based ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and improve elasticity. Shea butter and vitamin E help lock in moisture, while fig fruit extract plumps and smooths for a soft, healthy-looking glow. Warm a small amount between your fingers and gently press it into your skin to help it absorb evenly and thoroughly. Quick Recap:  A ceramide-rich moisturizer strengthens your skin's barrier, reduces dryness, and helps keep hydration locked in throughout the day. Step 5: Protect with SPF (Morning Only) Even if you spend most of your day indoors, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable.  UV exposure damages the skin barrier and worsens dryness over time. Use a lightweight, hydrating SPF with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or squalane to keep skin comfortable. Apply it as the final step of your morning routine — every day, all year long. Quick Recap:  Daily SPF protects your skin barrier, prevents moisture loss, and helps keep dryness at bay. Step 6: Restore and Repair Overnight Nighttime is the best time to focus on renewal and repair. As your skin rests, it naturally works to restore balance and rebuild moisture, making this the perfect time to use a deeply nourishing treatment. Farmacy’s Honey Potion Plus Ceramide Hydration Mask delivers intense hydration while strengthening your skin barrier. This warming honey mask combines antioxidant-rich honey, ceramides, and soothing cica to nourish and protect dry, depleted skin. Upcycled apple extract adds an extra layer of hydration, while royal jelly and propolis support smoother, healthier-looking skin. For a luxurious at-home spa moment, massage the mask onto clean skin until it transforms into a rich cream, then rinse after 10–15 minutes. Quick Recap:  Using a hydrating mask at night helps restore moisture, strengthen your skin barrier, and leave your complexion soft and radiant by morning. Clean Ingredients For Dry Skin That Make a Difference Understanding what’s inside your skincare is just as important as the routine itself. Clean ingredients help hydrate, soothe, and protect without irritating. Look for these powerful additions when building your best skin care routine for dry skin: Ceramides: Rebuild the skin’s lipid barrier to reduce moisture loss. Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Honey: A natural humectant rich in antioxidants and amino acids for lasting hydration. Squalane and Shea Butter: Emollients that lock in moisture and improve texture. Niacinamide: Helps strengthen the barrier and even out skin tone. Farmacy’s formulas combine clean, sustainably sourced ingredients with gentle delivery systems that nourish and support healthy, radiant skin. Quick Recap: The best ingredients for dry skin include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and honey, which naturally hydrate and protect the skin's barrier. Why Choose Farmacy Beauty for Your Dry Skin Routine Healthy skin starts with clean, conscious ingredients and thoughtful formulations. Farmacy Beauty blends the best of science and nature, using ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich honey sourced from farms that share our commitment to sustainability and transparency. Each product is cruelty-free, eco-conscious, and designed to deliver visible, nourishing results that help your skin stay hydrated, balanced, and radiant. When your skin feels dry, it’s a reminder to slow down and strengthen your barrier with a consistent, ingredient-focused routine. With clean, high-performing formulas from Farmacy Beauty, you can achieve deep hydration, lasting comfort, and a healthy glow every day. Shop our full collection of clean skincare for dry skin.         Dry Skin Frequently Asked Questions  1.) Why is my skin so dry? Your skin may be dry because its protective barrier isn’t holding onto enough moisture or natural oils. Common causes include cold weather, low humidity, hot showers, harsh cleansers, and aging. When the barrier is weakened, water escapes more easily, leaving your skin feeling rough or tight. Supporting your barrier with gentle cleansing, hydrating layers, and consistent moisture can help restore balance to your skin. 2.) How can I treat dry skin on my face? To treat dry skin on your face, start by using a gentle, non-stripping cleanser followed by hydrating layers that attract and seal in moisture. Look for serums and moisturizers with humectants like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin to strengthen your skin barrier. Protect your face daily with SPF and avoid over-exfoliating or washing with hot water, as both can exacerbate dryness. 3.) Is hyaluronic acid good for dry skin? Yes, hyaluronic acid is excellent for dry skin because it draws moisture into the surface layers and helps improve hydration levels. It works best when applied to slightly damp skin and followed with a moisturizer to lock in water. This helps maintain a smoother, softer texture and supports a healthy skin barrier. 4.) Is niacinamide good for dry skin? Niacinamide is very beneficial for dry skin. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduce water loss, and calm visible irritation or redness. Regular use of niacinamide can help your skin stay hydrated, smooth, and more resilient over time. 5.) Can dry skin cause acne? Dry skin can sometimes contribute to acne because when your skin lacks moisture, it may produce excess oil to compensate. This imbalance can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Keeping your skin hydrated and using gentle, non-comedogenic products helps prevent this cycle and supports clearer, calmer skin. 6.) What is a good moisturizer for dry skin? A good moisturizer for dry skin should contain ceramides, shea butter, and humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid to help repair and protect the skin's barrier. Choose a rich formula that locks in hydration and restores comfort. Farmacy’s Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer is an excellent option, combining ceramides, antioxidant-rich honey, and shea butter to deeply nourish and strengthen dry skin. 7.) How can I tell if I have dry or oily skin? You can tell if you have dry or oily skin by paying attention to how it feels after cleansing. If your skin feels tight, rough, or flaky, you likely have dry skin. If it becomes shiny or greasy, especially around your forehead, nose, and chin, it’s likely due to oily skin. Another way to check is to wash your face, wait 30 minutes without applying any products, and observe the results. Dry skin feels tight or uncomfortable, while oily skin will start to look shiny.

Why Skin Prep Is the Secret to Better Makeup If your makeup never seems to look quite right, whether it turns patchy, flaky, or dull halfway through the day, the problem might not be your foundation. It could be your skincare. Prepping skin for makeup has become an essential step for achieving a fresh, radiant finish that lasts and feels as good as it looks. Makeup sits best on skin that’s clean, hydrated, and balanced. Think of your skincare routine as the behind-the-scenes step that makes makeup look effortless. When your skin is healthy and moisturized, your foundation blends more evenly, your glow appears more natural, and your makeup stays in place longer. Why Prepping Skin for Makeup Matters Skipping skincare before makeup can lead to uneven application, patchiness, separation, and makeup that fades or creases by midday. Prepping skin for makeup helps to: Create a smooth surface so the foundation doesn't cling to dry patches or settle into fine lines Balance oil production to prevent shine or excess sebum from breaking down your base Boost hydration so skin looks plump, healthy, and radiant under makeup Extend wear time by giving makeup a grippy, even base to adhere to Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prep Skin for Makeup 1. Start with a Clean Canvas Cleansing is the first and most essential step in any skincare routine for achieving a flawless makeup application. Even if you cleanse the night before, your skin accumulates oil, sweat, and buildup overnight. A gentle morning cleanse removes these impurities and creates a fresh base for the rest of your routine. Use a cleanser that suits your skin type. If your skin is dry or sensitive, opt for a creamy, hydrating formula like Farmacy's Green Clean Gentle Creamy Cleanser, which gently removes buildup while maintaining moisture. For oily or combination skin, try a gel or foam texture, such as Farmacy's Green Clean Whipped Foaming Cleanser to lift away excess oil without stripping the skin. Recap: Clean skin equals better texture and a smoother foundation. 2. Apply a Hydrating Toner or Essence Toners and essences help restore your skin's pH balance after cleansing and deliver an initial layer of hydration. This step primes your skin to absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively.  Look for alcohol-free formulas with humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These ingredients pull moisture into the skin and create a dewy, plump base that makeup loves. Farmacy's Honey Milk Hydrating Essence is ideal for this step, combining Hawaiian white honey and chamomile to soothe and calm visible redness while ceramides strengthen your moisture barrier for all-day hydration. It's lightweight, milky texture layers beautifully under makeup for a glowy, dewy finish. Gently pat the toner or essence into your skin with clean hands. Recap: Even skin tone helps makeup look flawless. 3. Layer a Targeted Serum Serums are concentrated treatments that address specific skin concerns, such as dullness, texture, or dehydration. When prepping skin for makeup, choose serums that boost radiance and smooth your skin's surface. Hyaluronic acid serums are ideal for plumping and hydrating before makeup. Look for formulas with different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to penetrate multiple layers of skin, and ingredients like peptides that can instantly smooth fine lines for a flawless canvas. Farmacy's Filling Good Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers this with full-spectrum hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen peptides that instantly smooth and plump the skin. Vitamin C serums brighten and even skin tone while delivering antioxidant benefits. Look for formulas that are potent yet gentle enough for daily use. Farmacy's 10% Waterless Vitamin C Serum provides concentrated brightening in a stable formula that prepares the skin for a radiant, glowy finish. Niacinamide is another excellent choice for balancing oil and minimizing the look of pores. Apply your serum after toning and give it a moment to absorb before moving to the next step. Recap: A lightweight serum adds targeted treatment benefits without weighing down your base. 4. Hydrate with Moisturizer Think of moisturizer as your skin’s comfort layer. It locks in all the hydration from your previous steps, creating a smooth and supple surface for makeup application. Even oily skin types need moisture; they just need the right formula. For dry skin, opt for a richer cream with ingredients like ceramides or squalane to help lock in moisture. Farmacy's Honey Cloud Lightweight Barrier Repair Moisturizer delivers cloud-like, breathable hydration with Hawaiian white honey and a trio of barrier-strengthening ingredients that nourish without feeling heavy. For oily or combination skin, opt for a lightweight gel moisturizer that hydrates without adding shine. Farmacy's Daily Greens Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer offers lightweight hydration with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, helping to balance oil, reduce shine, and keep skin refreshed throughout the day. Apply moisturizer in upward motions and give it 2 to 3 minutes to fully absorb before applying makeup. This prevents pilling and ensures a smooth blend. Recap: Moisturizer hydrates, smooths, and creates the perfect base for makeup. 5. Protect with SPF Sunscreen is the last step in your skincare routine and a must for healthy skin, even when you're wearing makeup. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously to your face, neck, and any exposed areas. If you're concerned about pilling or greasiness, look for lightweight, makeup-friendly sunscreens that absorb quickly and leave a smooth finish. Some formulas are designed specifically to work under makeup and won't interfere with your base. Recap: SPF protects your skin and completes your prep before makeup application. 6. Prime for Perfection Primer is the bridge between skincare and makeup. While it's not technically skincare, it plays an essential role in skin prep for makeup by smoothing texture, blurring pores, and helping foundation stick better. Select a primer based on your skin type and makeup goals. Hydrating primers work well for dry skin, while mattifying primers control oil and shine. Pore-blurring primers create a smooth canvas for textured skin. Apply a thin layer and let it set for one minute before applying your foundation. Recap: Primer enhances your base and helps makeup last longer. What to Avoid Before Applying Makeup Certain products and habits can compromise the application and longevity of makeup. Avoid these common mistakes when prepping skin for makeup: Heavy oils or occlusive balms right before makeup, as they can cause the foundation to slide or separate Over-exfoliating can leave skin sensitive, red, or flaky Thick, greasy sunscreens that don't absorb fully and create a slippery base Layering too many products at once can lead to pilling or uneven texture Allow each product time to absorb before applying the next one. Patience during skin prep leads to better makeup results. Tailoring Your Skin Prep Routine to Your Skin Type For dry skin: Focus on hydration at every step. Use a creamy cleanser, a rich moisturizer, and a hydrating primer to prevent makeup from clinging to dry patches. For oily skin: Opt for lightweight, gel-based formulas and a mattifying primer to control shine without compromising moisture. For combination skin: Use a balanced routine with hydration where needed and oil control in the T-zone. A multi-tasking primer can help even things out. For sensitive skin: Stick to gentle,  fragrance-free products that won't irritate or inflame before makeup. Build a Skin Prep Routine That Works for You Learning how to prep skin for makeup is about finding the right balance of hydration, protection, and prep that works for your complexion. The steps are simple, but the results are noticeable. When you invest a few extra minutes in skincare before makeup, you'll see smoother application, longer wear, and a healthier-looking finish. Shop Farmacy's full collection and build a routine your skin (and makeup) will love.         FAQs: Prepping Skin for Makeup 1.) Do I need skincare if I use primer? Yes, you still need skincare, even if you use a primer. Primer works best over hydrated, balanced skin. Skincare delivers moisture and protection, while primer refines texture and helps makeup grip. Skipping skincare leaves your skin dry, making primer less effective and foundation harder to blend. 2.) Does sunscreen go on before or after moisturizer? Sunscreen goes on after moisturizer. Apply moisturizer first to lock in hydration, then follow with SPF 30 or higher as your final skincare step. Wait 2 to 3 minutes after moisturizer so it absorbs properly and doesn't pill under makeup. 3.) Should I use moisturizer before primer? Yes, always use moisturizer before primer. Moisturizer hydrates and smooths your skin, creating the ideal base for your primer to work effectively. Skipping it can make your makeup look patchy or settle into fine lines. The correct order is cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, SPF, then primer. 4.) Why does my makeup look cakey? Makeup looks cakey because you're applying it to dry, unprepared skin. When your skin lacks hydration, foundation clings to dry patches and settles into texture, creating a thick, patchy appearance. To prevent cakey makeup, cleanse and moisturize properly, exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells, and allow your skincare products to absorb fully before applying foundation. 5.) Why does my makeup look patchy? Makeup looks patchy because your skin is dry or hasn't been properly hydrated. When you skip cleansing, exfoliating, or moisturizing, foundation has no smooth surface to stick to and catches on rough texture or flaky areas. Focus on hydration with a serum and moisturizer suited to your skin type, and apply makeup with a damp sponge for smoother blending. 6.) Why does my makeup separate on my nose? Makeup tends to separate on your nose because this area produces more oil and has larger pores. To prevent separation, cleanse well and use a mattifying primer on oily areas. Avoid applying too much moisturizer directly to your nose. Set your foundation lightly with powder, and use blotting sheets during the day. 7.) Can I skip moisturizer before makeup? No, you should not skip moisturizer before makeup. Moisturizer creates a smooth base that helps the foundation apply evenly and last longer. Even oily skin needs moisture, because without it, your skin overproduces oil, causing makeup to break down more quickly. Choose a lightweight gel for oily skin or a richer cream for dry skin.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a category of chemical exfoliants used to remove dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and improve skin texture with consistent use.  AHA Benefits Overview AHAs gently exfoliate the skin’s surface, helping to smooth skin texture and boost brightness. Consistent use of AHAs improves hydration, fades hyperpigmentation + reduces the appearance of fine lines. Beginners should start with a gentler formula (under 10%), and gradually increase frequency as tolerated. Daily sunscreen use is essential — AHAs can increase sun sensitivity! AHAs are safe for most skin types, but those with sensitive, damaged, or highly reactive skin should exercise caution and patch test first.     What Are AHAs? Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble acids naturally derived from fruits, milk, and sugarcane. In skincare, AHAs act as chemical exfoliants, breaking down the bond between dead skin cells. This process accelerates skin cell turnover and reveals smoother, brighter skin underneath. AHAs offer a gentler alternative to physical exfoliants, making them more suitable for sensitive or dry skin. Common AHAs include: Glycolic Acid: Sourced from sugarcane, glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size among AHAs. Because of this small particle size, glycolic acid can penetrate deep into the skin, smoothing fine lines + improving texture. Best suited for normal to oily skin types. Lactic Acid: Derived from fermented milk or sugar, lactic acid is ideal for dry or sensitive skin. Its larger molecular structure results in gentler exfoliation that hydrates the skin with natural humectant properties. Mandelic Acid: Extracted from bitter almonds, mandelic acid has one of the largest molecular sizes among AHAs, which allows it to exfoliate the skin more slowly and gently. Mandelic acid is well-suited for very sensitive or acne-prone skin. Citric Acid: Citric acid is naturally found in citrus fruits and provides mild exfoliation and antioxidant benefits. It is typically used to brighten dull skin and even out skin tone, and works best for those concerned about radiance + discoloration. How Alpha Hydroxy Acids Work on the Skin Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) exfoliate the skin by breaking down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together on the surface. These bonds (known as desmosomes!) keep the outer layer of skin (stratum corneum) intact. By dissolving them, AHAs promote cellular turnover, allowing fresher, healthier skin to appear quicker. Unlike physical exfoliants, which remove dead cells through friction, AHAs function chemically — reducing the risk of micro-tears and irritation, making AHAs a gentler alternative for those with dull, uneven, or sensitive skin. Top Skin Benefits of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) When incorporated regularly into a skincare routine, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) offer visible and clinically-backed skin benefits. Brighter, More Radiant Complexion AHAs immediately improve skin luminosity by removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells. This exfoliation reveals fresher skin beneath + contributes to a healthy, natural glow over time.  Smoother Skin Texture Consistent use of AHAs helps soften rough patches, reduce flakiness, and refine the skin’s surface. This smoothing effect can also minimize the appearance of enlarged pores, making makeup application easier.  Increased Skin Hydration Certain AHAs like lactic acid function as humectants — ingredients that draw moisture into the skin. Humectants help maintain hydration levels, making the skin appear more plump, soft, and supple.  Reduction of Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation AHAs promote accelerated skin cell renewal, gradually fading sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and uneven skin tone over several weeks — leading to a clearer, more uniform complexion. Fade Fine Lines and Wrinkles By encouraging collagen production and accelerating the shedding of damaged surface cells, AHAs can reduce the appearance of fine lines and early wrinkles — making them a great option for those concerned with signs of aging. Understanding Types of AHA Skincare Products AHAs come in several formats, each designed to deliver exfoliation at different strengths and frequencies. Choosing the right one depends on your skin type, tolerance for exfoliants, and skin goals. TonersAHA toners are lightweight and gentle — offering mild, daily exfoliation. They’re best for sensitive skin or beginners looking to maintain a glow without irritation. SerumsMore concentrated and targeted, AHA Serums improve texture, dullness, and uneven tone. They are ideal for intermediate users looking for visible results. Peels and MasksThese are stronger rinse-off treatments used weekly for deeper exfoliation. Peels and masks are best for congested or dull skin, but not recommended for sensitive or reactive types. Each format serves a different purpose. If you’re new to acids, start with a toner or low-strength serum and increase intensity gradually, based on how your skin responds. Possible Side Effects of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) While alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are safe and well-tolerated for most people, some may experience mild side effects during the initial weeks of use or when applying higher concentrations. These effects are generally temporary and manageable with the proper precautions. Common Side Effects of AHAs Mild Redness or TinglingA slight tingling or warming sensation is common when first using AHAs. This is a normal response to increased skin activity and typically fades as your skin builds tolerance. Temporary Dryness or FlakingAs your skin adjusts to AHAs, you might notice a slight dryness or flaking — that’s totally normal! AHAs can temporarily disrupt the skin barrier, but a deeply hydrating moisturizer (like our fan-favorite Honey Halo ceramide face moisturizer) can help bring things back into balance. Increased Sun SensitivityExfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV damage. Without sunscreen, you’re leaving your skin exposed to sunburn and dark spots. Daily SPF is essential when using AHAs — but truthfully, it should already be a non-negotiable step in your routine. Who Should Avoid Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)? You should avoid AHAs or use caution if you: Have highly sensitive or reactive skin Are experiencing sunburn, inflammation, or open wounds Use prescription retinoids or acne medications Have known allergies to AHA ingredients How to Use AHAs Safely and Effectively (with Farmacy’s Picks) AHAs are powerful exfoliants, but it’s best to ease them into your routine to avoid irritation, dryness, or extra sensitivity. Nighttime is usually the sweet spot, since it limits sun exposure and works with your skin’s natural repair cycle. Here’s how to use AHAs the right way, plus the ideal step-by-step order and our top product picks to help you get started: AHA Best Practices Start with a low concentration (5–10%) and use 2–3 times per week Always patch test before applying to your whole face Avoid layering with other potent actives (like retinoids, vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide) in the beginning Follow with a moisturizer to help support your skin barrier Use broad-spectrum SPF every day (even when it’s cloudy!) AHA Skincare Routine (Evening Recommended) 1. CleanseGently wash away makeup + impurities with a non-stripping cleanser.Try: Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm 2. Apply AHASmooth on your AHA toner, serum, or mask, avoiding the eye area and any broken skin.Try: Farmacy Honey Glow 17% AHA + BHA Resurfacing Acid Serum 3. MoisturizeFollow with a hydrating cream to replenish moisture and protect your skin barrier.Try: Farmacy Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer 4. SPF (in the AM)If you apply AHAs in the morning, sunscreen is non-negotiable.Try: Farmacy Green Defense Mineral SPF 30 Tip: Most skin types tolerate AHAs better at night, especially when you're just starting out. AHA vs. BHA Both AHAs and BHAs are both chemical exfoliants, but they work differently and target different skin concerns. AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) exfoliate the skin's surface, making them ideal for dullness, uneven texture, and visible signs of aging. BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) like salicylic acid go deeper, helping clear pores and reduce oil, making them better suited for oily or acne-prone skin. Some skincare products combine both acids to address multiple concerns at once. For example, Farmacy's Honey Glow Serum blends AHAs and BHA to create a smooth texture while helping clear pores. The Glow-Up Starts Here When used with care, AHAs can reveal brighter, smoother skin. Start slow, reach for skin-loving formulas made with clean, farm-sourced ingredients, keep your moisture barrier happy, and never skip SPF. Ready to try AHAs? Explore Farmacy’s glow-boosting skincare today and find what works best for your routine. AHA FAQs What does AHA do for the skin? AHAs exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, smoother, and more even-looking complexion. Is glycolic acid an AHA? Yes, glycolic acid is a type of AHA. Its small molecular size allows it to exfoliate the skin’s surface to improve texture and tone. Is azelaic acid an AHA? No, azelaic acid is not an AHA. It is a dicarboxylic acid with anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties — often used for acne and rosacea. Is AHA safe during pregnancy? Low concentrations of AHAs, like glycolic or lactic acid, are generally considered safe during pregnancy — but it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider first. Can you use AHA and retinol together? Using AHAs and retinol at the same time can lead to irritation. Try alternating them on different nights or using one in the morning and one at night if your skin can tolerate it. Is salicylic acid an AHA? No, salicylic acid is a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid). BHAs penetrate pores to reduce oil and acne, making them ideal for oily or breakout-prone skin. How often should I use AHAs? AHAs should be used two to three times per week. If your skin adjusts well, you can gradually increase frequency while monitoring for signs of irritation.